African Applied Psychology (Social/Community focus)

Advancing Scholarship Across the Continent

Vol. 2007 No. 1 (2007)

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Comparative Psychological Studies in Sierra Leonean Contexts,

Koroma Kamara, Department of Advanced Studies, Njala University Saidu Sesay, Department of Advanced Studies, Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology Dawodu Conteh, Njala University Bintumane Koroma, Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18854778
Published: May 28, 2007

Abstract

Comparative psychological studies have been conducted in various African regions to understand cultural, social, and community dynamics. Sierra Leonean contexts provide a unique lens for examining these phenomena due to their rich history of colonialism and post-independence development. Qualitative methods were employed, including semi-structured interviews with participants from urban and rural areas, focus group discussions, and document analysis of existing psychological research on Sierra Leone. Data was triangulated to enhance validity and reliability. A significant finding revealed that despite economic disparities, there is a shared sense of community resilience across different regions, particularly evident in coping mechanisms during natural disasters. The qualitative data supports the hypothesis that social cohesion acts as a protective factor against psychological distress in Sierra Leonean communities. Future research should explore these findings further to inform policy and practice. Policy makers should prioritise community-based interventions to enhance resilience, especially in areas with high levels of socio-economic inequality. Community leaders are encouraged to foster intergenerational dialogue to promote understanding and cooperation. Sierra Leone, comparative psychology, resilience, social cohesion, qualitative research

How to Cite

Koroma Kamara, Saidu Sesay, Dawodu Conteh, Bintumane Koroma (2007). Comparative Psychological Studies in Sierra Leonean Contexts,. African Applied Psychology (Social/Community focus), Vol. 2007 No. 1 (2007). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18854778

Keywords

Cultural assimilationEthnicityIdentity formationMigration studiesSocial stratificationCommunity psychologyQualitative methodology

References